SD Druk Path Trek

Thimphu, Paro

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Tour snapshot

Duration:
9 days

Tour Type:
Trekking Tours

Language(s):
English

Highlight:
Top-rated experience

Overview

The trail takes you through pristine forests, high mountain passes, alpine lakes, and yak pastures, offering spectacular views of Himalayan peaks such as Mount Jomolhari.

Included Services

Flight, Hotel, Meals, Transport, Guide, Insurance

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Description

Overview of the Druk Pathway Tour This trek is considered a moderate route, ideal for travelers who want a short yet rewarding Himalayan trekking experience without extreme difficulty. Typically completed in 5–6 trekking days (within a 9-day tour), it takes you through forests, ridgelines, and high mountain passes. What Makes It Special Ancient Trail: Historically used as a trade route between Paro and Thimphu High Passes: Cross elevations over 4,000 meters with panoramic views Alpine Lakes: Visit pristine lakes like Jimilangtsho Lake and Simkota Tsho Mountain Views: Stunning sights of peaks like Mount Jomolhari and Jichu Drake Flora & Fauna: Rhododendron forests, blue pine, and occasional wildlife like yaks and Himalayan monals Trekking Experience The journey begins near Paro with a gradual climb through pine forests and villages, leading to historic sites such as Jele Dzong. As you progress, the landscape opens into alpine meadows and high ridges. Trekkers pass: Yak herder camps and remote pastures Crystal-clear high-altitude lakes Scenic ridgelines with views of both valleys The trek concludes with a descent via Phajoding Monastery, overlooking Thimphu city. Cultural Highlights Beyond trekking, the tour includes visits to Bhutan’s major landmarks: Rinpung Dzong National Memorial Chorten Buddha Dordenma The iconic Paro Taktsang Accommodation Style During trek: Camping (tents, cook staff, trekking crew) Before/after trek: Comfortable hotels in Paro and Thimphu Difficulty & Fitness Level: Moderate Max altitude: ~4,200 meters Best suited for: Beginners with good fitness to experienced trekkers Why Choose Druk Pathway Tour It’s the perfect introduction to trekking in Bhutan—short, scenic, culturally rich, and not overly demanding. You get a complete Himalayan experience in just over a week. Note: We would be happy to offer hotel upgrades based on your preference and comfort level. If you wish to stay in higher-category properties (such as premium 4-star or luxury hotels), we can arrange the upgrade for you. However, please note that any additional cost arising from the upgraded accommodation will need to be borne by the guest and will be added to the final package price accordingly.

What's Included

Inclusions

Airport pick-up and drop-off in Bhutan
All transfers and sightseeing as per itinerary
Licensed English-speaking guide
Experienced trekking crew (cook, helpers, support staff)
All trekking permits and entry fees
Accommodation in hotels (Paro & Thimphu)
Camping equipment during trek (tents, mattresses, dining tent, etc.)
All meals during trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner, tea/snacks)
Sightseeing as mentioned in itinerary
Government royalty and SDF (Sustainable Development Fee) as applicable

Exclusions

International airfare to and from Bhutan
Visa fee (if applicable for non-SAARC travelers)
Personal expenses (laundry, drinks, phone calls, etc.)
Travel insurance (recommended)
Porter or horse charges for extra luggage (if required)
Tips for guide, driver, and trekking staff
Emergency evacuation or medical expenses
Anything not mentioned in the “Inclusions” section

Additional information

Confirmation is sent at the time of booking
Please provide your arrival details so pickup can be arranged
Some sites may close at short notice for religious or official events
The itinerary may change based on weather and local conditions

Itinerary

1
Day 1: Day 1: Arrival in Paro
Arrive at Paro International Airport and meet your guide and driver. After transfer, enjoy a short sightseeing tour of Paro valley.
Places to visit:
- Rinpung Dzong – Historic fortress and monastery
- Dungtse Lhakhang – Unique chorten-shaped temple
- Drukgyel Dzong – Ancient fortress with mountain views
Overnight: Paro
2
Day 2: Day 2: Paro to Jele Dzong
Begin your trekking journey after a short drive and gradual uphill walk through forests and villages.
Trek details:
- Distance: 10 km
- Duration: 4–5 hours
- Camp altitude: ~3,480 m
Highlights:
- Start trek near National Museum of Bhutan
- Forest trail with pine trees and farmhouses
- Visit Jele Dzong
- Panoramic views of Paro Valley and Mount Jomolhari
Overnight: Jele Dzong (camp)
3
Day 3: Day 3: Jele Dzong to Jangchulakha
Continue trekking through forests and alpine landscapes with gradual ascents and descents.
Trek details:
- Distance: 10 km
- Duration: 4–5 hours
- Camp altitude: ~3,780 m
Highlights:
- Alpine forest trail with rhododendrons and pine trees
- Possible sightings of yak herders and Himalayan monals
- Scenic views of Mount Jomolhari
- Reach open yak pasture at Jangchulakha
Overnight: Jangchulakha (camp)
4
Day 4: Day 4: Jangchulakha to Jimilangtsho Lake
Trek along scenic ridges with beautiful mountain and valley views before reaching a high-altitude lake.
Trek details:
- Distance: 11 km
- Duration: 4–5 hours
- Camp altitude: ~3,880 m
Highlights:
- Ridge walk with views of Paro and Thimphu valleys
- Alpine vegetation including dwarf rhododendrons
- Chance to see yak herder camps
- Arrive at Jimilangtsho Lake, known for giant trout
- Views of Jichu Drake
Overnight: Lakeside camp at Jimilangtsho
5
Day 5: Day 5: Jimilangtsho to Simkota (via Janetsho Lake)
Today’s trail takes you through beautiful high-altitude landscapes, passing lakes and yak pastures with sweeping Himalayan views.
Trek details:
- Distance: 11 km
- Duration: 4–5 hours
- Camp altitude: ~4,110 m
Highlights:
- Walk through dwarf rhododendron and alpine terrain
- Pass Janetsho Lake
- Scenic yak herder camps along the trail
- Stunning views of surrounding Himalayan peaks
- Reach Simkota Tsho and nearby campsite
Overnight: Simkota (camp)
6
Day 6: Day 6: Simkota to Thimphu (via Phajoding)
Today is a long descent from high mountains down to the capital city, passing through scenic passes and monasteries.
Trek details:
- Distance: 14 km
- Duration: 7–8 hours
- End point: Thimphu city
Highlights:
- Climb to a saddle with views of Gangkhar Puensum
- Cross Phume La Pass (approx. 4,210 m)
- Visit Phajoding Monastery
- Gradual descent through pine and juniper forests
- End trek at Sangaygang viewpoint overlooking Thimphu
Overnight: Thimphu
7
Day 7: Day 7: Thimphu Sightseeing – Transfer to Paro
After completing the trek, enjoy a relaxed cultural tour of Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital city, before driving back to Paro.
Sightseeing highlights:
- National Memorial Chorten – Important religious monument
- Buddha Dordenma – Giant Buddha statue overlooking the valley
- Motithang Takin Preserve – Home of Bhutan’s national animal
- Royal Textile Academy of Bhutan – Traditional weaving and culture
- Craft Bazaar – Local handicrafts and souvenirs
After sightseeing, drive back to Paro.
Overnight: Paro
8
Day 8: Day 8: Tiger’s Nest Hike & Paro Sightseeing
A full day of cultural exploration and iconic hiking experience in Paro.
Activities:
- Hike to Paro Taktsang – Bhutan’s most famous monastery
- Visit Kyichu Lhakhang – One of the oldest temples in Bhutan
- Optional traditional hot stone bath experience
- Leisure time in Paro valley
Overnight: Paro
9
Day 9: Day 9: Departure from Paro
After breakfast, you will be transferred to Paro International Airport for your onward journey.
Highlights:
- Final farewell to your guide and driver
- Smooth airport drop-off assistance
- End of Druk Path Trek experience in Bhutan
Tour ends.